NNN-TNA
BANGKOK, Jan 1 (NNN-TNA) — Expressing concern regarding Thailand?s ongoing political conflict, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on New Year?s Day said he would continue to uphold the nation?s interests in 2010 and will not allow lawlessness to exist in the country.
The government would like to see the country move forward on the principle of righteousness which could lead to peace and reconciliation among the people, Mr Abhisit said, adding that he is concerned about the country?s anti-government movements as various conflicts remain intact.
The prime minister said his government must be cautious and be sure that society moves in a positive forward direction.
?Those who believe that violence can enable them to achieve their goals are wrong,? Mr Abhisit said. ?Thai society won?t accept it, and while the government respects the public?s rights under the constitution, it will not allow the country to become lawless?.
His remarks were made as the anti-government United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship plans to hold a major rally in mid-January with the aim to oust the coalition government, while the opposition Puea Thai Party plans to lodge a no-confidence debate against the government when Parliament reconvenes this month.
Regarding charter amendments proposed by his government but opposed by the Puea Thai Party, Mr Abhisit said he is ready to negotiate if it could result in serving the public interest, but he said he would not support amendments that serve the interests of individuals.
He said that fugitive prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra would continue to travel to countries which do not have extradition treaties with Thailand, excepting Cambodia.
?Ending the problem hinges on Thai society,? Mr Abhisit said, ?whether it wants to choose the country or a bargainer [any person of group who would trade the national well-being for personal advantage]. But I as prime minister won?t trade this for the future [well-being]of the country,? Mr Abhisit.
Ousted from power in a bloodless coup in September 2006, Mr Thaksin was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment in connection with a Bangkok land deal conducted to benefit his former wife while he was in power.
Convicted of crimes under Thai law, he fled the country rather than to receive the judgement, and has become an international traveller with no fixed address ?
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